Stolen tail light thread

[subquark]

Install a mercury switch inside tailgate connected to horn relay. With an on/ off bypass in cab?

I like this idea.

I also like the idea of those old window alarms that had a pistol set to fire when opened.

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[Justin says...]

Is this something that insurance would cover? ( I have comprehensive)

 

[WhyNot21]

Is this something that insurance would cover? ( I have comprehensive)

Of course.

 

[Jason B]

So it doesn't matter if the truck is locked or not? They can force the tailgate open with a punch through tool around the handle to gain access to the required bolts for the lights? Hard to tell from the image shown above, but regardless it sucks a big one.

I wonder if there is just a larger than local market for it on ebay and other second hand sales spots due to increasingly regular thefts. For eample If mine were stolen & I didn't wanna go through insurance I'd hit up ebay where I'd likely be purchasing some one else's stolen lights from Mr. Thiefy McDick or an intermediary? Regardless screw some thieves trying to make a quick buck. Huge pain in the ass and hardly a victimless crime.

On E-bay that is a high probability. Hell, you might be buying the ones taken from YOUR truck.

 

[O-Ranger]

You are correct.

The access panel on the tailgate is easily unscrewed from inside the bed. Opening the latch does not trigger the car alarm.

Pop-rivet the panel shut. It takes only a few minutes and is an easy job.

Hopefully the next generation will eliminate the tailgate access panel entirely.

So it doesn't matter if the truck is locked or not? They can force the tailgate open with a punch through tool around the handle to gain access to the required bolts for the lights? Hard to tell from the image shown above, but regardless it sucks a big one.

 

[Dollar]

You are correct.

The access panel on the tailgate is easily unscrewed from inside the bed. Opening the latch does not trigger the car alarm.

Pop-rivet the panel shut. It takes only a few minutes and is an easy job.

Hopefully the next generation will eliminate the tailgate access panel entirely.

No need to go through the access panel. Thief went under the tailgate handle to unlock it.
Which means anything under my topper is really not locked in. I have an XL, so my lights are not a target.
I might try to disconnect my handle and look for an electronic remote switch, like in hot rods.

 

[wanted33]

If the Governement would just declare open season on crooks, we could slow them down a bit. I hate a damn crook......

 

[Dollar]

Found this DIY tailgate lock...

 

[Mellow]

I can't find tail light brush guards for US Rangers, I did find these that look like plastic, but perhaps something similar could make a meth head take a pass on a truck with them?

https://www.amazon.com/PIUGILH-Taillight-Protector-Wildtrak-2012-2021/dp/B09P3L7JXX?th=1

The fact you believe a meth-head would use some type of reasoning and logic.... lol...

 

[subquark]

The fact you believe a meth-head would use some type of reasoning and logic.... lol...

Good point. Need to rig up a shotgun, under a tonneau, for when the tailgate is illicitly opened.

Or chain Cheech to the bumper. Although, it's hard to look tough in a burgundy coat ...

 

[MountainGoat]

If the Governement would just declare open season on crooks, we could slow them down a bit. I hate a damn crook......

Open season is coming but it's not the government that's going to declare it.

 

[DHMag]

So, an update. Quote from insurance is $3060. That includes a used tail light for $750 as well and body repair and paint refinish.

Today, the wife and i are cleaning our garage to fit both vehicles in. Hey, we just put our Christmas decorations away, just so we can pull them out in 2 months lol.

I am already looking at ways to secure the tailgate and lights to prevent this from happening again. I was thinking of that liquid steel or JB Weld to put on the back side of the outer skin with a piece of 1/8" aluminum sandwiched in. Still floating ideas though.

 

[DonB]

sadly these things are expensive over 1,000$ each. I weep for my children and future generations. Its going to hell and a hand basket.

My son can pull off a head shot at thirty yards on quick draw. I weep for anyone who jacks with him.

 

[DonB]

Has anyone at least found security screws to use?

I'll be working on that Monday and let everyone know what I found.

 

[DonB]

I'll be working on that Monday and let everyone know what I found.

Welp, scratch that idea. Plastic threads.
Gonna need some sort of cover.

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